‘Give Me the Freedom to Paint’

The Statue of Liberty, at Ellis Island, is closed (with the government shutdown) but at 5 Pointz, in Long Island City, Lady Liberty shines-on. But for how long? The New York City Planning Commission recently voted to allow developers to proceed with plans that would include demolishing the Aerosol Art Center. The City Council still has the last word, expected in the coming weeks.

The Statue of Liberty, dedicated in 1886, was a gift to the people of the United States from the people of France. This painting, completed on Oct.1, by French artist Veronique Barillot, was funded by her supporters in the Burgundy region of France.